Footstool Financial

07/13/2026

Most people will never face federal estate tax, but thoughtful planning still matters. Coordinating lifetime gifts, protecting assets, and understanding how taxes really work can help your family receive more of what you intend. This article from Winstead PC partner Jeff Chadwick highlights simple strategies that can make a meaningful difference, from tax-smart gifting to preserving step-up opportunities. If you would like to talk through how these ideas could apply to your situation, I am here to help make sure your plans support what matters most.

07/06/2026

In this week's Ask the Editor Q&A, Joy Taylor answers tax questions on inherited property: gold, stock, real estate, including the tax basis at death.

In this week's Ask the Editor Q&A, Joy Taylor answers five tax questions on inherited property, including the tax basis upon death.

07/02/2026

Several methods can help you calculate how much life insurance you need to financially support loved ones

Learn how to calculate how much life insurance to buy.

06/29/2026

If you own a business, your estate plan has to do more than list who gets what. It needs to protect the company you’ve built, keep operations running smoothly if something happens to you, and give your family clarity instead of chaos. This article describes how the right trust can support privacy, continuity, and long-term planning for business owners. If you would like to explore how a trust can support your succession goals or safeguard your business for the future, let’s get together and walk through your options.

06/25/2026

Buy-sell Agreement: Why every business with multiple owners should have one
In this eye-opening video, you’ll learn how the owners of Coffee Break harnessed the power of a buy-sell agreement to protect their business in the event of unforeseen circumstances like the loss of a partner. Watch the video to learn more about ensuring your business's stability.

Discover the importance of buy-sell agreements for businesses with multiple owners. Protect your business and co-owners, prevent conflicts, and ensure a smooth transition of ownership. Watch now for essential insights!

06/18/2026

If you have $5 million saved for retirement, your RMDs will change every year. Find out exactly how much you must withdraw at ages 73, 75, 80 and 85.

06/11/2026

If you've made a large capital gain from selling a property and want to do a 1031 exchange, you might want to pause and consider how that will affect your portfolio in the long term.

If you're considering a 1031 exchange after making a large capital gain from selling a property, stop and ask how it will affect your portfolio in the long term.

06/08/2026

A business partnership without a plan can get messy fast. Just ask the famous couple who once bought a home and winery together… then split up, skipped the paperwork, and watched the whole thing spiral into a legal tug-of-war. One even ended up sharing his personal residence with a stranger tied to the sale. Not exactly the happily-ever-after they expected.
All of it could have been avoided with a simple buy-sell agreement to lay out what happens if an owner leaves – through death, divorce, disability, retirement, or simply wanting out – so the business keeps running smoothly and everyone knows their rights. Watch this video to learn more about how a buy-sell agreement works, and then let’s make sure your business interests are protected.

In this brief video, you will explore the crucial importance of buy-sell agreements for your business. These agreements are like insurance policies for your company, ensuring its stability and protecting the interests of co-owners. Don't wait until it's too late – watch now to secure your business...

06/04/2026

The article highlights how different withdrawal strategies may affect taxes during retirement.

Test your retirement tax knowledge with our short quiz.

05/28/2026

You work hard for your income — but how it’s classified for tax purposes can change everything: Taxable means you pay now; tax-deferred means you pay later; and tax-free means you may never pay! Smart financial planning isn’t just about how much you earn; it’s about what kind of income you build. Watch this short video to learn other important disclosures and then let’s look at what’s inside your buckets. https://bit.ly/3RzkQK5